Air interface selection between nodes in peer-to-peer/ad-hoc networks

ABSTRACT

Aspects describe pairs of nodes negotiating air interfaces in a peer-to-peer and/or ad hoc network. The negotiation can take into account the capability of each node. The negotiation can be performed on a default link and after negotiation, the nodes can facilitate a communication handoff to the negotiated link. Further, one or more nodes can support multiple air interfaces, wherein nodes that support multiple air interfaces can establish more than one air interface with peer nodes over similar air interfaces or over different air interfaces as a function of negotiation between the nodes.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No.12/276,837 filed 24 Nov. 2008, which is hereby incorporated byreference, as if set forth in full in this document, for all purposes.

BACKGROUND

I. Field

The following description relates generally to communication networksand more particularly to peer-to-peer and/or ad hoc networks.

II. Background

Wireless communication systems are widely deployed to provide varioustypes of communication. For example, voice, data, video and so forth canbe provided through wireless communication systems. A typical wirelesscommunication system, or network, can provide multiple users access toone or more shared resources. For example, a system may use a variety ofmultiple access techniques such as Frequency Division Multiplexing(FDM), Time Division Multiplexing (TDM), Code Division Multiplexing(CDM), Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiplexing (OFDM), and others.

Wireless communication networks are commonly utilized to communicateinformation regardless of where a user is located (inside or outside astructure) and whether a user is stationary or moving (e.g., in avehicle, walking). Generally, wireless communication networks areestablished through a mobile device communicating with a base station oraccess point. The access point covers a geographic range or cell and, asthe mobile device is operated, the mobile device can be moved in and outof these geographic cells.

A network can also be constructed utilizing solely peer-to-peer deviceswithout utilizing access points or the network can include both accesspoints (infrastructure mode) and peer-to-peer devices. These types ofnetworks are sometimes referred to as ad hoc networks. Ad hoc networkscan be self-configuring whereby when a mobile device (or access point)receives communication from another mobile device, the other mobiledevice is added to the network. As mobile devices leave the area, theyare dynamically removed from the network. Thus, the topography of thenetwork can be constantly changing.

In centralized networks (e.g., CDMA IS-95, Global System for MobileCommunications (GSM), WCDMA, and so forth), a single air interface isutilized. Ad-hoc networks do not have a dedicated infrastructure tocontrol the network, however, it has been typical for ad-hoc networks tobe modeled using a single air interface across the network, which is notvery efficient.

SUMMARY

The following presents a simplified summary of one or more aspects inorder to provide a basic understanding of such aspects. This summary isnot an extensive overview of all contemplated aspects, and is intendedto neither identify key or critical elements of all aspects nordelineate the scope of any or all aspects. Its sole purpose is topresent some concepts of one or more aspects in a simplified form as aprelude to the more detailed description that is presented later.

In accordance with one or more aspects and corresponding disclosurethereof, various aspects are described in connection with selection ofan air interface in a peer-to-peer and/or ad hoc network. Nodes cannegotiate an air interface on a default link and can switch to thenegotiated air interface (if different from the default link) forcontinued communication between the nodes. Further, nodes can supportmultiple air interfaces and can be connect to two or more peer nodes.These node pairs can be over a similar air interface and/or overdifferent air interfaces.

An aspect relates to a mobile device that includes a processor thatexecutes computer executable instructions stored on a computer-readablemedium. The instructions include establishing a connection with a peernode over a first link that includes at least two air interfaceidentifications and a ranking provided by the mobile device andnegotiating with the peer node a second link from the at least two airinterface identifications. The negotiation is a function of the ranking.The instructions also include selectively handing off communication fromthe first link to the second link to continue communication with thepeer node.

Another aspect relates to a wireless communications apparatus thatincludes a memory and a processor. The memory retains instructionsrelated to establishing a connection with a peer node over a first linkthat includes at least two air interface identifications and a rankingprovided by the wireless communications apparatus. The first link can bea default link. The memory also retains instructions related tonegotiating with the peer node a second link from the at least two airinterface identifications. The negotiation is a function of the ranking.Further, the memory retains instructions related to selectively handingoff communication from the first link to the second link to continuecommunication with the peer node. The processor is coupled to the memoryand is configured to execute the instructions retained in the memory.

Yet another aspect relates to a wireless communications apparatus thatenables air interface selection. The apparatus includes means forestablishing communication with a peer node over a first link thatincludes at least two air interface identifications and a rankingprovided by the wireless communications apparatus. The first link is adefault link. The apparatus also includes means for negotiating with thepeer node a second link from the at least two air interfaceidentifications. The negotiation is a function of the ranking.Additionally, apparatus includes means for selectively handing offcommunication from the first link to the second link to continuecommunication with the peer node in an ad hoc network.

Still another aspect relates to a computer program product that includesa computer-readable medium. The computer-readable medium includes afirst set of codes for causing a computer to establish communicationwith a peer node over a first link that includes at least two airinterface identifications and a ranking. The computer-readable mediumalso includes a second set of codes for causing the computer tonegotiate with the peer node a second link from the at least two airinterface identifications. The negotiation is a function of the ranking.Further, the computer-readable medium includes a third set of codes forcausing the computer to selectively handoff communication from the firstlink to the second link to continue communication with the peer node.

A further aspect relates to at least one processor configured tofacilitate an air interface selection between a node pair. The processorincludes a first module for establishing a connection with a peer nodeover a first link that includes at least two air interfaceidentifications and a ranking and a second module for negotiating withthe peer node a second link from the at least two air interfaceidentifications. The negotiation is a function of the ranking. Theprocessor also includes a third module for selectively handing offcommunication from the first link to the second link to continuecommunication with the peer node in an ad hoc communication network.

To the accomplishment of the foregoing and related ends, the one or moreaspects comprise the features hereinafter fully described andparticularly pointed out in the claims. The following description andthe annexed drawings set forth in detail certain illustrative featuresof the one or more aspects. These features are indicative, however, ofbut a few of the various ways in which the principles of the variousaspects may be employed. Other advantages and novel features will becomeapparent from the following detailed description when considered inconjunction with the drawings and the disclosed aspects are intended toinclude all such aspects and their equivalents.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 illustrates a wireless communication system in accordance withvarious aspects presented herein.

FIG. 2 illustrates a system that allows peer nodes in a peer-to-peerand/or ad hoc network to negotiate links based on parameters associatedwith the peer nodes, according to an aspect.

FIG. 3 illustrates an example frame structure according to the aspectsdisclosed herein.

FIG. 4 illustrates a method for establishing an air interface link in awireless ad-hoc network, according to an aspect.

FIG. 5 illustrates a method for enabling peer nodes to negotiate linksbased on parameters associated with the nodes in accordance with anaspect.

FIG. 6 illustrates a system that facilitates air interface configurationin an ad hoc network in accordance with one or more of the disclosedaspects.

FIG. 7 illustrates an example system that facilitates negotiation of anair interface, according to an aspect.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Various aspects are now described with reference to the drawings. In thefollowing description, for purposes of explanation, numerous specificdetails are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding ofone or more aspects. It may be evident, however, that such aspect(s) maybe practiced without these specific details. In other instances,well-known structures and devices are shown in block diagram form inorder to facilitate describing these aspects.

As used in this application, the terms “component”, “module”, “system”,and the like are intended to refer to a computer-related entity, eitherhardware, firmware, a combination of hardware and software, software, orsoftware in execution. For example, a component may be, but is notlimited to being, a process running on a processor, a processor, anobject, an executable, a thread of execution, a program, and/or acomputer. By way of illustration, both an application running on acomputing device and the computing device can be a component. One ormore components can reside within a process and/or thread of executionand a component may be localized on one computer and/or distributedbetween two or more computers. In addition, these components can executefrom various computer readable media having various data structuresstored thereon. The components may communicate by way of local and/orremote processes such as in accordance with a signal having one or moredata packets (e.g., data from one component interacting with anothercomponent in a local system, distributed system, and/or across a networksuch as the Internet with other systems by way of the signal).

Furthermore, various aspects are described herein in connection with amobile device. A mobile device can also be called, and may contain someor all of the functionality of a system, subscriber unit, subscriberstation, mobile station, mobile, wireless terminal, node, device, remotestation, remote terminal, access terminal, user terminal, terminal,wireless communication device, wireless communication apparatus, useragent, user device, or user equipment (UE). A mobile device can be acellular telephone, a cordless telephone, a Session Initiation Protocol(SIP) phone, a smart phone, a wireless local loop (WLL) station, apersonal digital assistant (PDA), a laptop, a handheld communicationdevice, a handheld computing device, a satellite radio, a wireless modemcard and/or another processing device for communicating over a wirelesssystem. Moreover, various aspects are described herein in connectionwith a base station. A base station may be utilized for communicatingwith wireless terminal(s) and can also be called, and may contain someor all of the functionality of, an access point, node, Node B, e-NodeB,e-NB, or some other network entity.

Various aspects or features will be presented in terms of systems thatmay include a number of devices, components, modules, and the like. Itis to be understood and appreciated that the various systems may includeadditional devices, components, modules, etc. and/or may not include allof the devices, components, modules etc. discussed in connection withthe figures. A combination of these approaches may also be used.

Additionally, in the subject description, the word “exemplary” is usedto mean serving as an example, instance, or illustration. Any aspect ordesign described herein as “exemplary” is not necessarily to beconstrued as preferred or advantageous over other aspects or designs.Rather, use of the word exemplary is intended to present concepts in aconcrete manner.

Referring now to FIG. 1, a wireless communication system 100 isillustrated in accordance with various aspects presented herein. System100 comprises a base station 102 that can include multiple antennagroups. For example, one antenna group can include antennas 104 and 106,another group can comprise antennas 108 and 110, and an additional groupcan include antennas 112 and 114. Two antennas are illustrated for eachantenna group; however, more or fewer antennas can be utilized for eachgroup. Base station 102 can additionally include a transmitter chain anda receiver chain, each of which can in turn comprise a multitude ofcomponents associated with signal transmission and reception (e.g.,processors, modulators, multiplexers, demodulators, demultiplexers,antennas, etc.), as will be appreciated by one skilled in the art.Additionally, the base station 102 can be a home base station, a Femtobase station, and/or the like.

Base station 102 can communicate with one or more mobile devices such asmobile device 116; however, it is to be appreciated that base station102 can communicate with substantially any number of mobile devicessimilar to mobile device 116. As depicted, mobile device 116 is incommunication with antennas 104 and 106, where antennas 104 and 106transmit information to mobile device 116 over a forward link 118 andreceive information from mobile device 116 over a reverse link 120.

In addition, mobile devices 122 and 128 can be communicating with oneanother, such as in a peer-to-peer configuration. Moreover, mobiledevice 122 is in communication with mobile device 128 using similarlinks 124 and 126. In a frequency division duplex (FDD) system, forwardlink 118 can utilize a different frequency band than that used byreverse link 120, for example. Further, in a time division duplex (TDD)system, forward link 118 and reverse link 120 can utilize a commonfrequency band.

In a peer-to-peer ad hoc network, devices within range of each other,such as devices 122 and 128, communicate directly with each otherwithout a base station 102 and/or a wired infrastructure to relay theircommunication. Additionally, peer devices or nodes can relay traffic.The devices within the network communicating in a peer-to-peer mannercan function similar to base stations and relay traffic orcommunications to other devices, functioning similar to base stations,until the traffic reaches its ultimate destination. The devices can alsotransmit control channels, which carry information that can be utilizedto manage the data transmission between peer nodes.

A communication network can include any number of mobile devices ornodes that are in wireless communication. Each node can be within rangeof one or more other nodes and can communicate with the other nodes orthrough utilization of the other nodes, such as in a multi-hoptopography (e.g., communications can hop from node to node untilreaching a final destination). For example, a sender node may wish tocommunicate with a receiver node. To enable packet transfer betweensender node and receiver node, one or more intermediate nodes can beutilized. It should be understood that any node can be a sender nodeand/or a receiver node and can perform functions of either sendingand/or receiving information at substantially the same time (e.g., canbroadcast or communicate information at about the same time as receivinginformation).

System 100 can be configured to establish a link between multi-airinterfaced peers (e.g., devices 122 and 128) in an ad hoc wirelessnetwork. Centralized networks (e.g., CDMA, GSM, WCDMA, OFDMA) have aninfrastructure and standards built around a single air interface. On theother hand, peer-to-peer networks do not utilize a centralizedinfrastructure. The disclosed aspects provide support of multiple typesof air interfaces between peers and selection of an adequate airinterface between peers, wherein both peers agree upon the air interfacebased on each peer's requirements, capabilities, and so forth (e.g.,type of bandwidth requirement). In accordance with some aspects,centralized networks can be supported.

The disclosed aspects can provide true ad-hoc networks with a bestpossible air interface between node pairs or between multiple node pairs(e.g., node A pairs over a first interface with node B and node A pairsover a second interface with node C). Further, the disclosed aspects canprovide higher network throughput by providing a protocol to allow nodesto select a correct type of air interface according to variousparameters, such as bandwidth type, the necessary amount of bandwidth,and/or the available type of air interface between the network nodes.

FIG. 2 illustrates a system 200 that allows peer nodes in a peer-to-peerand/or ad hoc network to negotiate air interface links based onparameters associated with the peer nodes, according to an aspect. Peernodes, such as mobile devices, can support multiple air interfaces. Inpeer-to-peer networking and/or mobile ad hoc networking, nodes shouldutilize the best possible link (e.g., air interface) to communicate withother nodes. In an ad hoc network, peer nodes might not communicateutilizing the same interface between the different sets of peer nodes.For example, if an ad hoc network has nodes A1, A2, A3, and A4, eachpair of nodes (e.g., node pair A1 and A2, node pair A2 and A3, node pairA1 and A4, and so forth) can have different air links that might bebetter for communication between the pairs. System 200 can facilitateselection of the best possible communication air links through anegotiation process conducted between peer nodes.

System 200 can be utilized in a communication network 202 that can be anad hoc communication network and/or a peer-to-peer communicationnetwork. These types of networks might not have a centralized basestation that provides a link between nodes, such as a single airinterface. There can be one or more nodes in communication network 202,such as transmitter node 204 and receiver node 206. Although a number oftransmitter(s) 204 and receiver(s) 206 can be included in wirelessnetwork 202, as will be appreciated, a single transmitter 204 thattransmits communication data signals to a single receiver 206 isillustrated for purposes of simplicity.

Further, it should be appreciated that although the aspects aredescribed with reference to a transmitter 204 and a receiver 206, asingle node (transmitter 204 and/or receiver 206) can concurrentlytransmit and receive data, can transmit and receive data at differenttimes, or combinations thereof Further, a transmitter 204 and/orreceiver 206 can initiate a communication link and/or receive a requestfor initiation of communication, according to an aspect. Transmitter 204and/or receiver 206 can be mobile devices, such as devices 116, 122 and128 of FIG. 1.

A peer-to-peer network provides flexibility in that the nodes 204, 206do not have to communicate over a single interface. The transmitter 204and receiver 206 can have different preferred interfaces or a commonpreferred interface. To exploit this flexibility, the nodes cannegotiate a link or air interface over which communications between thenodes should be conducted.

Included in transmitter 204 is a link establisher 208 that is configuredto establish a communication link with receiver 206. This link can be adefault link that is established between the nodes within thecommunication network 202. In accordance with some aspects, the defaultlink is a pre-established link that is already known by the nodes. Thissingle default air interface for link negotiation can have a low (orvery low) bandwidth and a high reliability. In some cases, the airinterface can provide enough capability to negotiate a link. Peer nodes204, 206 can first interact utilizing this default air interface.

Receiver node 206 includes a link acknowledger 210 that is configured toreceive the request to establish the link and accept the link, if thelink should be established. If establishment of the link is not to beenabled, the receiver 206 can ignore the request and/or transmit afailure message to transmitter 204.

All air interfaces are provided an identification such as A, B, C, D,and so forth, and air interface selection algorithms Algo1, Algo2,Algo3, Algo4, and so forth. The connection is established utilizing thisdefault link automatically.

The transmitter node 204 (e.g., the peer that requested the network)includes a transmitter negotiator 212 that is configured to transmit anair interface ID and associated algorithm to negotiate the airinterface, which are received at the receiver 206. The ID of the airinterface is common across the peers (e.g., transmitter 204 and receiver206). Thus, receiver 206 can understand the types of interfaces sendingpeer (e.g., transmitter 204) supports.

Since receiver 206 also receives the type of algorithm, it shouldutilize a similar algorithm to calculate the best air interface that isavailable to both peers (e.g., transmitter 204 and receiver 206). Thiscalculation or determination can be performed by an air interfacenegotiator 214.

In accordance with some aspects, a ranking of the link IDs is exchangedbetween transmitter 204 and receiver 206. For example, the devices caninclude OFDM, GSM, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, or other communicationtechnologies. The ranking can be made based on which one of those linksis the better for communication between transmitter 204 and receiver206. In accordance with some aspects, the ranking can be a function ofthe distance between the nodes 204, 206 (e.g., how far apart the nodesare from each other). Additionally or alternatively, the ranking can bemade based on the channel conditions of each link. In accordance withsome aspects the link between nodes 204, 206 can be dynamicallynegotiated either periodically or it can be negotiated as a function ofa condition (e.g., Signal to Interference plus Noise Ratio (SINR)) or achange in condition of an existing wireless link between nodes.

According to some aspects, the link can be dynamically negotiated if alink ranking is changed at either of the nodes. For example, the linkranking can be changed as a function of statistics obtained by either orboth nodes 204, 206. The statistics can be obtained as a process ofnetwork signaling, based on proactively scanning links, based on usageof cognitive radio techniques, and so forth, or combinations thereof Forexample, a cognitive radio allows a network and/or a node to changereception and/or transmission parameters in order for the network ornode to achieve communication that is more efficient.

The receiver 206 sends the result of the calculation to transmitter 204(e.g., requestor). Based on the negotiated ranking, the transmitter 204and receiver 206 can perform a handoff from the default link to thenegotiated link. If the negotiated link is the default link, a handoffdoes not occur (e.g., the nodes remain on the default link).

In accordance with some aspects, transmitter 204 and/or receiver 206 canhave a second link with another node (e.g., a third node withincommunication network 202). The first link negotiated betweentransmitter 204 and receiver 206 can be a different link than a linknegotiated with a third device (or more devices). Thus, a node (e.g.,transmitter 204, receiver 206) can be utilizing two (or more) links atsubstantially the same time and the links can be different types oflinks.

System 200 can include memory 216 and 218 operatively coupled totransmitter 204 and receiver 206, respectively. Memory 216, 218 can beexternal to transmitter 204 (or receiver 206) or can reside withintransmitter 204 (receiver 206). Memory 216, 218 can store informationrelated to negotiating a link with a peer device in an ad-hoc networkand other suitable information related to signals transmitted andreceived in a communication network. Memory 216, 218 can store protocolsassociated with air interface negotiation, taking action to controlcommunication between transmitter 204 and receiver 206 such that system200 can employ stored protocols and/or algorithms to achieve improvedcommunications in a wireless ad-hoc network as described herein.

A processor 220 and 222 can be operatively connected to transmitter 204(receiver 206) (and/or memory 216, 218) to facilitate analysis ofinformation related to air interface negotiation in a communicationnetwork. Processor 220, 222 can be configured to execute computerexecutable instructions stored on a computer-readable medium. Theinstructions can relate to establishing a connection with a peer nodeover a first link that includes at least two air interfaceidentifications and a ranking provided by the mobile device (e.g.,transmitter, receiver). The instructions can also relate to negotiatinga second link and handing off communication from the first link to thesecond link. Processor 220, 222 can be a processor dedicated toanalyzing and/or generating information received by transmitter 204(receiver 206), a processor that controls one or more components ofsystem 200, and/or a processor that both analyzes and generatesinformation received by transmitter 204 (receiver 206) and controls oneor more components of system 200.

It should be appreciated that the data store (e.g., memories) componentsdescribed herein can be either volatile memory or nonvolatile memory, orcan include both volatile and nonvolatile memory. By way of example andnot limitation, nonvolatile memory can include read only memory (ROM),programmable ROM (PROM), electrically programmable ROM (EPROM),electrically erasable ROM (EEPROM), or flash memory. Volatile memory caninclude random access memory (RAM), which acts as external cache memory.By way of example and not limitation, RAM is available in many formssuch as synchronous RAM (SRAM), dynamic RAM (DRAM), synchronous DRAM(SDRAM), double data rate SDRAM (DDR SDRAM), enhanced SDRAM (ESDRAM),Synchlink DRAM (SLDRAM), and direct Rambus RAM (DRRAM). Memory of thedisclosed aspects are intended to comprise, without being limited to,these and other suitable types of memory.

FIG. 3 illustrates an example frame structure 300 according to theaspects disclosed herein. As illustrated, the frame structure 300 caninclude the link information 302 appended to the data/control payload304. The link information can include various information related to thedefault link and/or other links (e.g., the links that are undernegotiation). The link information can be exchanged between nodes (e.g.,transmitter 204 and receiver 206) periodically with a frame structure,such as the illustrated frame structure 300 and/or logical channelstructure. It should be understood that the frame structure 300illustrated is for example purposes only and other frame structures canbe utilized with the disclosed aspects.

In view of the exemplary systems shown and described above,methodologies that may be implemented in accordance with the disclosedsubject matter, will be better appreciated with reference to thefollowing flow charts. While, for purposes of simplicity of explanation,the methodologies are shown and described as a series of blocks, it isto be understood and appreciated that the claimed subject matter is notlimited by the number or order of blocks, as some blocks may occur indifferent orders and/or at substantially the same time with other blocksfrom what is depicted and described herein. Moreover, not allillustrated blocks may be required to implement the methodologiesdescribed herein. It is to be appreciated that the functionalityassociated with the blocks may be implemented by software, hardware, acombination thereof or any other suitable means (e.g. device, system,process, component). Additionally, it should be further appreciated thatthe methodologies disclosed hereinafter and throughout thisspecification are capable of being stored on an article of manufactureto facilitate transporting and transferring such methodologies tovarious devices. Those skilled in the art will understand and appreciatethat a methodology could alternatively be represented as a series ofinterrelated states or events, such as in a state diagram.

FIG. 4 illustrates a method 400 for establishing an air interface linkin a wireless ad-hoc network, according to an aspect. Method 400 starts,at 402, when a request for a link is transmitted from a first node to asecond node, which are peer nodes. The request can be for a default linkto be established with the second node. Each type of air interface canbe provided with an identification (ID). For example, Bluetooth isprovided with “ID A”, PEANUT is provided with “ID B”, and Wi-Fi isprovided with “ID C” The default link can be assigned by the noderequesting the communication (e.g., first node). In an example, thedefault link can be the most commonly utilized link by the requestingnode. At 404, a link acceptance request is received from the second nodeif the default link is acceptable to the second node and/or the secondnode can support the link.

After establishment of the default link, parameters are conveyed, at406, to the second node over the default link. These parameters caninclude the air interfaces supported by the first node. The parameterscan also include an algorithm that can be utilized by second node todetermine if the default link is acceptable or if another link should beutilized for further communications between the first node and thesecond node. In an example, the nodes can advertise a type of airinterface and the ranking of the air interface for each node. Fornegotiation, the nodes can utilize a similar algorithm, method, or othertechnique to select the best possible link and, at 408, informationrelated to an air-interface that should be utilized (e.g., the chosen ornegotiated link) is received.

At substantially the same time as the chosen link is selected, the nodescan handoff from the default link to the selected link, if the selectedlink is different from the default link. This handoff can be a softhandoff and should be seamless to the nodes. In accordance with someaspects, the nodes should support the same type of handoffs of airinterfaces. Data is transmitted, at 410, on the negotiated link. In sucha manner, the nodes can communicate over an air interface that isadequate for both nodes.

In accordance with some aspects, link information can be exchanged, at412, periodically or based on other criteria, such as an indication of achange in a current link. The link information can be exchanged with aparticular frame structure or logical channel structure. Based on theexchanged link information, method 400 continues, at 406, where linknegotiation is dynamically performed. For example, the link betweennodes can be dynamically negotiated periodically or based on observedchannel conditions of an existing wireless link between nodes (whichmight have been a previously negotiated link). If there is a change inthe condition (e.g., SINR) of the existing wireless link, a new linkmight be negotiated and the nodes might handoff to that newly negotiatedlink. In accordance with some aspects, the link is renegotiated if aranking at either of the nodes changes. For example, the ranking can bechanged based on statistics received through network signaling, scanningof the link, cognitive radio techniques, or through other means.

FIG. 5 illustrates a method 500 for enabling peer nodes to negotiatelinks based on parameters associated with the nodes in accordance withan aspect. At 502, a request to establish a default link is receivedfrom a first node, which is a peer node in an ad hoc network. Therequest can open a communication link (e.g., default link) between thefirst node and a second node. If the default link can be establishedwith the first node, an acceptance of the default link is transmitted,at 504. If the default link cannot be established, method ends.

At 506, parameters associated with the peer node are received. Theparameters can include the air interface supported by the peer node.Further, the parameters can include an algorithm, method, or othertechnique, that can be utilized to determine whether or not a differentlink should be utilized and/or whether the default link is acceptablefor further communications between the nodes.

Parameters associated with a receiving node are reviewed, at 508. Aranking of air interfaces in a descending order of preference (oranother ranking system) can be communicated between the nodes. The nodescan negotiate the best possible air interface for each node. Forexample, a first node might have a ranking in the following order:

-   -   Air Interface A    -   Air Interface C    -   Air Interface B        where Air Interface A is more preferred than Air Interface C,        which is more preferred than Air Interface B. Further, a second        node might transmit the following preference ranking:    -   Air Interface B    -   Air Interface C    -   Air Interface A        where Air Interface B is more preferred than Air Interface C,        which is more preferred than Air Interface A.

The devices can review the ranking of each other and determine, in thisexample, that Air Interface C is the best link for both devices. Thisnegotiation can be conveyed between the devices as confirmation, at 510,and based on this negotiation, the nodes can handoff from the defaultlink to Air Interface C to continue the communication between thedevices.

A status of an existing link (e.g., a negotiated link) might change dueto various situations and that link might no longer be adequate foreither (or both) nodes. Therefore, a feedback loop can be included inmethod 500 and, at 512, a link is renegotiated. This renegotiation canoccur periodically and/or based on a changed condition of an existinglink. In accordance with some aspects, the link is renegotiated if aranking of one of the nodes changes. In such a manner, the nodes mightrenegotiate an existing link and handoff to the renegotiated link if itis determined that a different link would be better for both nodes dueto the changed conditions and/or that changed ranking.

With reference now to FIG. 6, illustrated is a system 600 thatfacilitates air interface configuration in an ad hoc network inaccordance with one or more of the disclosed aspects. System 600 canreside in a user device. System 600 comprises a receiver 602 that canreceive a signal from, for example, a receiver antenna. The receiver 602can perform typical actions thereon, such as filtering, amplifying,downconverting, etc. the received signal. The receiver 602 can alsodigitize the conditioned signal to obtain samples. A demodulator 604 canobtain received symbols for each symbol period, as well as providereceived symbols to a processor 606.

Processor 606 can be a processor dedicated to analyzing informationreceived by receiver component 602 and/or generating information fortransmission by a transmitter 608. In addition or alternatively,processor 606 can control one or more components of user device 600,analyze information received by receiver 602, generate information fortransmission by transmitter 608, and/or control one or more componentsof user device 600. Processor 606 may include a controller componentcapable of coordinating communications with additional user devices.

User device 600 can additionally comprise memory 608 operatively coupledto processor 606 and that can store information related to coordinatingcommunications and any other suitable information. Memory 610 canadditionally store protocols associated with air interface management.User device 600 can further comprise a symbol modulator 612 and atransmitter 608 that transmits the modulated signal.

Receiver 602 is further operatively coupled to an encoder 614 thatscrambles a Walsh Sequence with a random sequence to produce a scrambledsequence. The encoder 614 can be provided with the random sequence sothat a single FHT can be utilized to decode the sequence. Additionally,receiver 602 can be operatively coupled to an allocator 616 that receivean assignment of one or more sub-sequences of the scrambled sequence.The transmitter 608 can send the scrambled sequence as an access-basedhandoff probe. In response to the access probe, receiver 602 can receivean Access Grant, which can be transmitted over a Shared Signaling MACProtocol.

Receiver 602 can be configured to support multiple air interfaces andcan also include a link negotiator 614 that is configured to negotiateone or more air interfaces that are adequate for receiver 602 and one ormore other devices (e.g., peer devices). In such a manner, the devicescan negotiate for a link that might be better than a default link and/ora link established by only one of the devices. During communication,links can be renegotiated and a handoff to a different link can occur ifit is determined that a different link is preferred due to changedcircumstances and/or a change to a ranked order of links.

With reference to FIG. 7, illustrated is an example system 700 thatfacilitates negotiation of an air interface, according to an aspect.System 700 can reside at least partially within a mobile device. It isto be appreciated that system 700 is represented as including functionalblocks, which may be functional blocks that represent functionsimplemented by a processor, software, or combination thereof (e.g.,firmware).

System 700 includes a logical grouping 702 of electrical components thatcan act separately or in conjunction. Logical grouping 702 can includean electrical component 704 for establishing a connection with a peernode over a first link that includes at least two air interfaceidentifications and a ranking provided by mobile device that includessystem 700. The first link is a default link and the ranking indicatesthe preferred order of air interfaces. The mobile device and the peernode can support similar types of handoff of air interfaces.

Also included in logical grouping 702 is an electrical component 706 fornegotiating with the peer node a second link from the at least two airinterface identifications. The negotiation can be a function of theranking. In accordance with some aspects, capabilities of the mobiledevice and the peer node are utilized to negotiate the second link.

Further, logical grouping 702 includes an electrical component 708 forselectively handing off from the first link to the second link to enablecommunication with the peer node. The mobile device and the peer nodecommunicate within an ad hoc wireless network.

In accordance with some aspects, logical grouping 702 can also includean electrical component for establishing a second connection with asecond peer node over the first link and an electrical component fornegotiating with the second peer node a third link from the at least twoair interface identifications. The negotiation is a function of theranking. Further, logical grouping can include an electrical componentfor selectively handing off from the first link to the third link toenable communication with the second peer node. The third link and thesecond link are different air interfaces.

In accordance with some aspects, logical grouping 702 includes anelectrical component for negotiating with the peer node a third linkperiodically or as a function of a changed condition of the second link.Additionally or alternatively, logical grouping 702 can include anelectrical component for detecting a change in a link ranking and anelectrical component for negotiating with the peer node a third link asa function of the detected link ranking change. Detecting the change caninclude at least one of obtaining statistics based on network signaling,proactively scanning links, cognitive radio techniques, or combinationsthereof Further, logical grouping 702 can include an electricalcomponent for the exchanging link information with the peer nodeperiodically with a frame structure or logical channel structure.

Additionally, system 700 can include a memory 710 that retainsinstructions for executing functions associated with electricalcomponents 704, 706, and 708 or other components. While shown as beingexternal to memory 710, it is to be understood that one or more ofelectrical components 704, 706, and 708 may exist within memory 710.

It is to be understood that the aspects described herein may beimplemented by hardware, software, firmware or any combination thereof.When implemented in software, the functions may be stored on ortransmitted over as one or more instructions or code on acomputer-readable medium. Computer-readable media includes both computerstorage media and communication media including any medium thatfacilitates transfer of a computer program from one place to another. Astorage media may be any available media that can be accessed by ageneral purpose or special purpose computer. By way of example, and notlimitation, such computer-readable media can comprise RAM, ROM, EEPROM,CD-ROM or other optical disk storage, magnetic disk storage or othermagnetic storage devices, or any other medium that can be used to carryor store desired program code means in the form of instructions or datastructures and that can be accessed by a general-purpose orspecial-purpose computer, or a general-purpose or special-purposeprocessor. Also, any connection is properly termed a computer-readablemedium. For example, if the software is transmitted from a website,server, or other remote source using a coaxial cable, fiber optic cable,twisted pair, digital subscriber line (DSL), or wireless technologiessuch as infrared, radio, and microwave, then the coaxial cable, fiberoptic cable, twisted pair, DSL, or wireless technologies such asinfrared, radio, and microwave are included in the definition of medium.Disk and disc, as used herein, includes compact disc (CD), laser disc,optical disc, digital versatile disc (DVD), floppy disk and blu-ray discwhere disks usually reproduce data magnetically, while discs reproducedata optically with lasers. Combinations of the above should also beincluded within the scope of computer-readable media.

The various illustrative logics, logical blocks, modules, and circuitsdescribed in connection with the aspects disclosed herein may beimplemented or performed with a general purpose processor, a digitalsignal processor (DSP), an application specific integrated circuit(ASIC), a field programmable gate array (FPGA) or other programmablelogic device, discrete gate or transistor logic, discrete hardwarecomponents, or any combination thereof designed to perform the functionsdescribed herein. A general-purpose processor may be a microprocessor,but, in the alternative, the processor may be any conventionalprocessor, controller, microcontroller, or state machine. A processormay also be implemented as a combination of computing devices, e.g., acombination of a DSP and a microprocessor, a plurality ofmicroprocessors, one or more microprocessors in conjunction with a DSPcore, or any other such configuration. Additionally, at least oneprocessor may comprise one or more modules operable to perform one ormore of the steps and/or actions described above.

For a software implementation, the techniques described herein may beimplemented with modules (e.g., procedures, functions, and so on) thatperform the functions described herein. The software codes may be storedin memory units and executed by processors. The memory unit may beimplemented within the processor or external to the processor, in whichcase it can be communicatively coupled to the processor through variousmeans as is known in the art. Further, at least one processor mayinclude one or more modules operable to perform the functions describedherein.

The techniques described herein may be used for various wirelesscommunication systems such as CDMA, TDMA, FDMA, OFDMA, SC-FDMA and othersystems. The terms “system” and “network” are often usedinterchangeably. A CDMA system may implement a radio technology such asUniversal Terrestrial Radio Access (UTRA), CDMA2000, etc. UTRA includesWideband-CDMA (W-CDMA) and other variants of CDMA. Further, CDMA2000covers IS-2000, IS-95 and IS-856 standards. A TDMA system may implementa radio technology such as Global System for Mobile Communications(GSM). An OFDMA system may implement a radio technology such as EvolvedUTRA (E-UTRA), Ultra Mobile Broadband (UMB), IEEE 802.11 (Wi-Fi), IEEE802.16 (WiMAX), IEEE 802.20, Flash-OFDM®, etc. UTRA and E-UTRA are partof Universal Mobile Telecommunication System (UMTS). 3GPP Long TermEvolution (LTE) is a release of UMTS that uses E-UTRA, which employsOFDMA on the downlink and SC-FDMA on the uplink. UTRA, E-UTRA, UMTS, LTEand GSM are described in documents from an organization named “3rdGeneration Partnership Project” (3GPP). Additionally, CDMA2000and UMBare described in documents from an organization named “3rd GenerationPartnership Project 2” (3GPP2). Further, such wireless communicationsystems may additionally include peer-to-peer (e.g., mobile-to-mobile)ad hoc network systems often using unpaired unlicensed spectrums, 802.xxwireless LAN, BLUETOOTH and any other short- or long-range, wirelesscommunication techniques.

Moreover, various aspects or features described herein may beimplemented as a method, apparatus, or article of manufacture usingstandard programming and/or engineering techniques. The term “article ofmanufacture” as used herein is intended to encompass a computer programaccessible from any computer-readable device, carrier, or media. Forexample, computer-readable media can include but are not limited tomagnetic storage devices (e.g., hard disk, floppy disk, magnetic strips,etc.), optical disks (e.g., compact disk (CD), digital versatile disk(DVD), etc.), smart cards, and flash memory devices (e.g., EPROM, card,stick, key drive, etc.). Additionally, various storage media describedherein can represent one or more devices and/or other machine-readablemedia for storing information. The term “machine-readable medium” caninclude, without being limited to, wireless channels and various othermedia capable of storing, containing, and/or carrying instruction(s)and/or data. Additionally, a computer program product may include acomputer readable medium having one or more instructions or codesoperable to cause a computer to perform the functions described herein.

Further, the steps and/or actions of a method or algorithm described inconnection with the aspects disclosed herein may be embodied directly inhardware, in a software module executed by a processor, or in acombination of the two. A software module may reside in RAM memory,flash memory, ROM memory, EPROM memory, EEPROM memory, registers, a harddisk, a removable disk, a CD-ROM, or any other form of storage mediumknown in the art. An exemplary storage medium may be coupled to theprocessor, such that the processor can read information from, and writeinformation to, the storage medium. In the alternative, the storagemedium may be integral to the processor. Further, in some aspects, theprocessor and the storage medium may reside in an ASIC. Additionally,the ASIC may reside in a user terminal In the alternative, the processorand the storage medium may reside as discrete components in a userterminal Additionally, in some aspects, the steps and/or actions of amethod or algorithm may reside as one or any combination or set of codesand/or instructions on a machine readable medium and/or computerreadable medium, which may be incorporated into a computer programproduct.

While the foregoing disclosure discusses illustrative aspects and/oraspects, it should be noted that various changes and modifications couldbe made herein without departing from the scope of the described aspectsand/or aspects as defined by the appended claims. Accordingly, thedescribed aspects are intended to embrace all such alterations,modifications and variations that fall within scope of the appendedclaims. Furthermore, although elements of the described aspects and/oraspects may be described or claimed in the singular, the plural iscontemplated unless limitation to the singular is explicitly stated.Additionally, all or a portion of any aspect and/or aspect may beutilized with all or a portion of any other aspect and/or aspect, unlessstated otherwise.

To the extent that the term “includes” is used in either the detaileddescription or the claims, such term is intended to be inclusive in amanner similar to the term “comprising” as “comprising” is interpretedwhen employed as a transitional word in a claim. Furthermore, the term“or” as used in either the detailed description or the claims isintended to mean an inclusive “or” rather than an exclusive “or”. Thatis, unless specified otherwise, or clear from the context, the phrase “Xemploys A or B” is intended to mean any of the natural inclusivepermutations. That is, the phrase “X employs A or B” is satisfied by anyof the following instances: X employs A; X employs B; or X employs bothA and B. In addition, the articles “a” and “an” as used in thisapplication and the appended claims should generally be construed tomean “one or more” unless specified otherwise or clear from the contextto be directed to a singular form.

1. A first device comprising: a processor configured to: communicateover a first link with a second device; and transmit a messageindicating at least two link types for communication with the seconddevice.
 2. The first device of claim 1, wherein the processor is furtherconfigured to receive an indication from the second device thatcommunication using the at least two link types is denied.
 3. The firstdevice of claim 1, wherein the processor is further configured toreceive an indication from the second device selecting one of the atleast two link types for communication.
 4. The first device of claim 1,wherein the processor is further configured to receive a ranking oflinks from the second device, the ranking of links indicating apreference order for link types for communication with the seconddevice.
 5. The first device of claim 4, wherein the ranking of linkscomprises at least two link identifiers each associated with one of theat least two link types.
 6. The first device of claim 4, wherein theprocessor is further configured to transmit an update message indicatingone or more link types to the second device.
 7. The first device ofclaim 1, wherein the message indicating at least two link typescomprises a ranking of links indicating a preference order forutilization of the at least two link types for communication with thesecond mobile device.
 8. The first device of claim 7, wherein theranking of links comprises at least two link identifiers each associatedwith one of the at least two link types.
 9. The first device of claim 1,wherein the first link comprises a near field communication link. 10.The first device of claim 1, wherein the at least two link typescomprise at least two of the following link types: orthogonalfrequency-division multiplexing, global system for mobilecommunications, Wi-Fi, code division multiplexing, frequency divisionmultiplexing, near field communication, and Bluetooth.
 11. The firstdevice of claim 1, wherein the processor is further configured toperform a handoff to a link of at least one of the at least two linktypes for communication with the second device.
 12. The first device ofclaim 1, wherein the processor is further configured to perform thehandoff based on a ranking of links indicating a preference order forlink types for communication with the second device.
 13. The firstdevice of claim 1, wherein the processor is further configured toperform the handoff based on parameters of the at least two link typesfor communication with the second device.